The new VW GTI will sport 217 hp—10 more ponies than last year—from the same 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection gasoline engine. Torque grows to 258 lb-ft; that's as much as the Golf R we drove back in July.

VW will also offer a performance pack, boosting output to 227 hp. The GTI will make the 0-to-60 sprint in 6.6 seconds, with a top speed of 153 mph.

In addition to upping the power, the performance pack also comes with upgraded front brake discs and a limited slip set-up that reduces torque steer. A six-speed manual and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission are both available.

The new Volkswagen GTI also gets a variable ratio steering system, which reduces input when moving at slow speeds and parking.

Also at the show, VW revealed the 2014 Golf BlueMotion, which gets 88.3 mpg on the European test cycle. Fuel consumption is down 15 percent from the last generation, but capacity is up and the tank now holds 14.5 gallons.

The BlueMotion has lost weight—57 pounds in the running gear and 81 pounds in the body. It also uses low rolling resistance tires with higher air pressure, longer gear ratios and battery regeneration.

The BlueMotion gets a 1.6-liter turbo-diesel engine, making 108 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.

The BlueMotion will launch in the United Kingdom in 2013, as will the GTI.

The 2012 Paris motor show, or as it is officially known – Mondail de l'Automobile – will take place Sept. 27 through Oct. 14, 2012. It occurs every two years alternating with the Frankfurt motor show in Germany. The Paris motor show is a spotlight for the latest in design, but automakers will also be showing off their latest concept cars, green cars and supercars.